Application · Company of the Year 2026 · Roots of Connection

Application

Applications for Company of the Year 2026 are now closed. Learn about the selection process, eligibility criteria, and evaluation.

Applications closed
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Who can take part

To represent their country at Company of the Year 2026, each student company must meet these requirements.

1

Active enrollment in the Junior Achievement Company Program 2026 in their country.

2

Successful operation of a real venture throughout the program.

3

Recognition as a standout company by their Junior Achievement national office.

4

A team of at least five students.

How companies are assessed

The jury evaluates each company across six dimensions. Download the full evaluation guide for the detailed scorecard.

🧭

Organizational Management

Team structure, roles, plans, and clear decisions.

🌱

Impact and Purpose

Economic, social, and environmental impact aligned with a clear purpose.

💡

Innovation and Technology

Originality of the idea and smart use of tools and technology.

🚀

Projection and Scalability

Growth potential and the vision to reach new markets.

📈

Performance and Commitment

Sales results, financial health, and team dedication.

🎬

Report and Video Pitch

Quality and clarity of the written report and the video pitch.

Tell your story with impact

Two deliverables bring your company to life for the jury: a written report and a short video pitch. Use these guidelines, and download the full recommendations below.

📄 Report

English · Max 10 pages
  • Cover: company name, school, city, country, logo, advisor, and team.
  • Executive summary: who you are, mission, product or service, and highlights.
  • History and purpose: the origin of the idea and the problem you solve.
  • Product or service: features, benefits, price, and triple impact.
  • Management and operations: roles, plans, production, and logistics.
  • Marketing and sales: audiences, competition, channels, and results.
  • Economic and financial results: capital, income, costs, and net profit.

🎥 Video Pitch

Original language · Max 3 minutes
  • A dynamic, creative introduction to your company and why you belong at Company of the Year.
  • Structure: presentation, product or service, purpose, achievements, and success story.
  • Recorded horizontally, with good light and clear sound.
  • Real images of your team at work and at the fair.
  • One or more speakers, as you prefer.
  • No copyrighted music.

Key dates

Mark your calendar. Here is the road from pre-registration to the finalist announcement.

Step 1

Application period

Aug 14 – Sep 15
Step 2

Evaluation phase

Sep 15 – Sep 30
Step 3

Finalist announcement

October 2

Meet the 2026 judges

Finalist companies will be evaluated by a jury of business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the region.

Roxana Corla
Roxana Corla
International Wealth Advisor

With 30+ years in international wealth management, Roxana leads Corla Wealth Management Group, blending cross-border strategy with behavioral economics. A Certified Private Wealth Advisor® (CPWA®), she has been named to Forbes' Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and America's Top Women Wealth Advisors lists multiple years running.

in LinkedIn
Carlos Sluman
Carlos Sluman
Founder, Beliv

With two decades in the global beverage industry, Carlos founded and led Beliv as CEO — a "Good for You" beverage company selling in 30+ countries. He previously held senior marketing roles at Ambev/InBev and Cabcorp. Today he channels that same entrepreneurial drive into new ventures and mentoring the next generation of founders.

in LinkedIn
Luísa Blaszak
Luísa Blaszak
Marketing Director, Achei SAE (COY 2024)

Luísa served as Marketing Director of Achei SAE, the mini-company that won Company of the Year Americas 2024, and has stayed engaged with the Junior Achievement ecosystem ever since. An Advertising student, she works across communications, marketing, and youth entrepreneurship, bringing creativity and hands-on experience with young founders.

in LinkedIn
Leonardo Tiarajú
Leonardo Tiarajú
Philanthropy Manager · Dell Technologies

Passionate professional connecting technology with progress. 14+ years in the tech industry with focus on ESG, corporate responsibility, and international investments. Dedicated to building a sustainable and inclusive future.

in LinkedIn
Closed

Applications are now closed

The nomination period for Company of the Year 2026 ended on September 15. Thank you to every national office and student company that took part.

Explore Company of the Year 2026 →

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Applications for 2026 are closed